Cheshire East’s decision to hold a meeting about public appeals behind closed doors was blasted as ‘immoral’ by residents.

A small number of residents turned up at Friday’s strategic planning board meeting despite knowing they were likely to be thrown out. They all knew the meeting had been called to discuss whether or not Cheshire East would back them in appeals. And they were incensed that was to be discussed in private.

Paul Bates, who is also a member of Congleton Town Council, told board members: “There is a moral dilemma here. I want you to consider the fact that you are going to, in private, discuss a public inquiry. I think that is absolutely immoral.”

That was greeted with a call of ‘hear, hear’ from council leader Michael Jones, who is not on the strategic planning board, but attended the meeting as a visiting councillor.

For Congleton residents in particular there was a sense of real urgency regarding the meeting as they are due to fight an appeal within the next few days.

Resident Derek White said: “We have a public inquiry in 11 days. Will we have legal representation from Cheshire East?”

He added: “We’re shocked that such an important decision will be taken behind closed doors which excludes the very residents who have actively supported your local plan.”

He said it was up to Cheshire East to fight on residents’ behalf.

In the end, councillors recommended the council fight the appeals.

Although delighted, residents still questioned the need for the meeting to be secret.